Kentucky running back Chip Trayanum has entered the transfer portal, continuing an offseason trend of significant player departures for the Wildcats. According to Chris Hummer of 247Sports, Trayanum is among 16 players who have left Kentucky via the portal so far. The transfer portal officially opened Monday, providing players the opportunity to explore new team options.

Trayanum, a transfer from Ohio State, came into the 2024 season with high expectations, projected as Kentucky’s starting running back. Unfortunately, a broken hand sustained in fall camp sidelined him for the first six games. Upon his return, he played in just three games, recording 19 carries for 101 yards while sharing backfield duties with Demie Sumo-Karngbaye and Jamarion Wilcox.

This latest transfer adds to a growing list of key Kentucky players who have left the program, including leading receivers Dane Key and Barion Brown, as well as wide receiver Anthony Brown-Stephens and tight end Khamari Anderson. The wave of exits underscores the challenge Kentucky faces in maintaining roster depth heading into the offseason.

Before his stint at Kentucky, Trayanum was a standout player. Last season, during his senior year at Ohio State, he carried the ball 85 times for 373 yards, averaging 4.4 yards per carry and scoring three touchdowns. His game-winning touchdown in Ohio State’s dramatic 17-14 victory over Notre Dame was a season highlight. Overall, Trayanum has amassed 1,157 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns in his collegiate career, with an average of 5.1 yards per carry. He also contributed as a receiver, catching 15 passes for 91 yards.

Originally from Akron, Ohio, Trayanum was highly rated as a four-star recruit and a top-25 running back in the 2020 recruiting class by 247Sports. His move to Kentucky followed his entry into the transfer portal after leaving Ohio State, where he was a Doak Walker Award candidate.

The NCAA’s transfer portal, introduced in 2018, allows players to explore new opportunities without requiring permission from their current teams. While entering the portal signals an intent to transfer, it does not obligate players to leave. However, once in the portal, schools are not required to maintain a player’s scholarship. Trayanum’s next destination remains uncertain as he seeks a fresh start in his collegiate career.